Sex: The Best Menstrual Cramp Relief?

Period sex is one of those taboo topics that everyone shudders at and automatically dismiss as ‘gross‘ or ’10/10 will not do’. But deep down…everyone is curious. They want all the deets – What’s the real deal about period sex? Is it really all that amazing like people say? Period sex as menstrual cramp relief – Is it just a lie for men to get in women’s pants even while on their period?

Here at pslove, we discuss exactly what you need to know about having sex on your period…

Credits: youonlywetter.co.uk

Firstly…What is menstrual cramps?

Menstrual cramps, otherwise known as dysmenorrhea, are pains in the abdominal and pelvic areas experienced by women during their period as her uterus contracts to expel the unfertilised eggs and uterine lining from her body in the form of menstruation blood.

High levels of prostaglandins are usually associated with painful menstrual cramps. Prostaglandin is a type of hormone released from the uterine walls during menstruation that causes inflammation and contractions.

So… Does sex really help? How does it relieve menstrual cramps?

Credits: Imgur.com

Many women have reported that this was a tried-and-tested proven method for relieving their menstrual cramps. Studies have also shown that women’s pain threshold increases by up to 75% when they orgasm. Generally, when a woman climaxes, more blood rushes to the uterus, which can help with cramps

Here’s the catch though – You have toorgasm. (Just sex alone might not be as effective)

Long story short – When you have an orgasm, your body releases plenty of good substances (not just externally, of course). These include dopamine, oxytocin, endorphins, serotonin, noradrenaline, acetylcholine and nitric oxide.

Getting too technical? Let us explain what each chemical does to your body!

Dopamine: A neurotransmitter that communicates satisfaction with sex via an area in the brain called the mesolimbic “reward” pathway, which is also involved in natural highs such as those experienced by drug use. Gives a sense of well-being and satisfaction

Oxytocin: Intensifies uterine contractions, which causes prostaglandins (substance involved in causing menstrual cramps) to flow out together with the uterine lining blood. Also increases bonding with sexual partner, as well as have calming properties.

Endorphins: Body’s natural pain-relievers. Also able to boost mood.

Serotonin: A neurotransmitter that helps to boost mood.

Noradrenaline: Levels increases significantly during an orgasm. Corresponds with rise in heart rate and blood pressure. Blood flow to genitals increases, engorging the blood vessels significantly. Initiates pulsation of vagina following an orgasm. The overall noradrenaline-mediated orgasm reaction inhibits the pain communication from the pelvic organs to the brain which can last up to an hour post-orgasm.

What Other Benefits Are There To Having Sex On A Period?

#1: Less Lube Needed

Credits: drsherry.com

If you’re naturally on the dry side who have trouble producing natural lubricants, then period sex is a welcome change from using lube all the time!

#2: It can Shorten the Length of Your Period

Credits: Gifer.com

Your uterus contracts with every orgasm you have, thus expelling the uterine lining and blood faster than it naturally takes. Also, as mentioned above, along with the blood flushed out are the substances that causes the menstrual cramps! Win-win.

#3: It’s Not as Gross as You Think It Is

Credits: Steemit.com

No, period blood is not ‘dirty’! Get that myth outta your head and stay in the moment to enjoy! Although this will probably not be a problem as studies have shown that anyone in the heat of the moment are probably much too sexually aroused that it overrides the natural response of disgust due to the presence of blood. Thank you, Mother Nature!

#4: Greater Intimacy and Bond with Your Partner

Credits: sacredtouchstl.com

Period sex brings your level of intimacy with your partner to the next level. If you’re willing to engage in period sex, at your most vulnerable, you’re also opening up yourself to deeper intimacy with your partner (you don’t just do this with anyone).

Due to the floodgates, you may have to try out different positions or even take it to the showers. If you’ve always stuck to missionary, then this will bring you out of your comfort zone, and, who knows, you may be more open to other bedroom antics in future.

#5: Simply Because You Want To

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Admit it, your sex drive is sky rocketing during this period (no pun intended), and you know you want it. During your period, levels of progesterone (lowers libido) is at its lowest, while estrogen and testosterone levels peak (increases sex drive). As a result of this cocktail of hormones, you would tend to feel extremely horny.

(Do note that this is also your body preparing you for ovulation, when you are most likely to get pregnant. So, remember to usecontraceptives if you do not wish to get pregnant!)

Tips For Having Sex While On Your Period

#1 Ziggy cup

Credits: intimina.com

If you really do not want to handle the period sex mess at all, meet the menstrual cup’s cousin, the Ziggy cup! Like the menstrual cup, it is able to contain your period blood. However, its unique flat-fit structure enables you to wear it during sex (while you can’t do the same with the menstrual cup) All the benefits of period sex without the mess? Yes please!

#2: Shower Sex

Credits: Buzzfeed.com

Worried about all the mess you have to clean up after a session of period sex? Take it to the showers. Steamy shower sex while reducing the mess made? Perfect.

Just be careful not to slip!

If you’re not so keen on shower sex check out other sex positions that minimises the amount of mess made, while maximising your pleasure.

#3: Prep Your Bed

Credits: Pinterest.com

If being on the bed is still your most comfortable place to be, set it up before your floodgates open! Lay some dark-coloured sheets over so that your blood won’t stain the sheets.

Credits: Giphy.com

Have no partner to have sex with to relieve the menstrual cramps? No worries! Who says you need a partner to reach orgasm? Having fun on your own while on your period is definitely an awesome alternative.

However, in spite of all that is said, it’s okay to not want to have period sex!!! Don’t let this be a reason for others to force you into having sex if you really don’t want to.

Having sex isn’t the only way to relieve your menstrual cramps, so don’t feel like you have to participate in the activity if you don’t feel up for it. You can always stick with your trusty heat pads if that’s your favourite way to unwind.

Don’t forget, though, that flying solo between the sheets can provide you with just as much relief as having sex with a partner!

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[…] very own natural ‘feel-good’ pain-relievers – endorphins, are released when you work out, or have sex (and orgasm). Endorphins will not only help to relieve the menstrual cramps, but boost your mood as […]